Gravely Pro-Ride 254 Owner's/Operator's Manual page 20

IMPORTANT: DO NOT OVERFILL! This
equipment and/or its engine may include
evaporative emissions control system
components, required to meet EPA and/or
CARB regulations, that will only function
properly when the fuel tank has been filled to
the recommended level. Overfilling may
cause permanent damage to evaporative
emissions control system components. Filling
to the recommended level ensures a vapor
gap required to allow for fuel expansion. Pay
close attention while filling the fuel tank to
ensure that the recommended fuel level
inside the tank is not exceeded. Use a
portable gasoline container with an
appropriately sized dispensing spout when
filling the tank. Do not use a funnel or other
device that obstructs the view of the tank
filling process.
4. Replace fuel cap and tighten.
5. ALWAYS clean up spilled fuel.
GASOLINE
IMPORTANT: ALWAYS use gasoline that
meets the following guidelines:
• Clean, fresh gasoline.
• A minimum of 87 octane/87 AKI (91
RON). High altitude use may require a
different octane. Consult your engine
manual.
• Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol
(gasohol) or up to 10% MTBE (methyl
tertiary butyl ether) is acceptable.
• Use of any gasoline other than those
approved above will void the engine
warranty. If the pumps are not marked
for the content of alcohol or ethers,
check ethanol and MTBE levels with
the fuel supplier.
• Do not modify the fuel system to use
different fuels.
• Never mix oil and gasoline.
NOTE: All gasoline is not the same. If the
engine experiences starting or performance
problems after using a new gasoline, switch
to a different fuel provider or fuel brand.
IMPORTANT: Excessively oxygenated or
reformulated fuels (fuels blended with
alcohols or ethers) can damage the fuel
system or cause performance problems. If
any undesirable operating problems occur,
use a gasoline with a lower percentage of
alcohol or ether.
Fuel Stabilizer
Gasoline left in the fuel system for extended
periods without a stabilizer will deteriorate,
resulting in gum deposits in the system.
These deposits can damage the carburetor
and the fuel hoses, filter and tank. Prevent
deposits from forming in the fuel system
during storage by adding a quality fuel
stabilizer to the fuel. Follow the
recommended mix ratio found on the fuel
stabilizer container.
MOUNTING AND DISMOUNTING
SAFELY
DO NOT step on either side of the mower
deck when mounting or dismounting the
power unit. Step over the deck when
mounting or dismounting.
PRE-START INSPECTION
CAUTION: Make sure all
hardware is tight, all safety
devices are in place and all
adjustments are made correctly.
Safe operation is the responsibility of the
operator. The operator MUST be familiar with
the mower and power unit controls, how they
work, and all safety precautions BEFORE
starting operation.
IMPORTANT: Inspect the mowing blade bolts
daily, or whenever a blade has been
removed. Torque is 110 – 130 lbf-ft. (150 –
177 N•m).
• Make sure all safety shields are in
place and secured properly.
• Make sure the operator is instructed
on correct and safe operation of the
power unit and related attachments
and implements.
• Check engine and hydraulic reservoir
oil and fill as necessary.
• Check the pump belt and drive belt
tension and adjust as necessary.
• Ensure air intake screens are clear of
debris to provide maximum engine
cooling.
• Inspect tires, tire pressure and wheel
bolt torque. Look for external signs of
leakage and correct before operating
the mower. Check steering control
levers for looseness and correct
position.
• Check for adequate fuel supply. It is
recommended that the fuel tank be filled
following each day's use to reduce
condensation and provide a full tank for
next use.
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